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Thailand may pass Entertainment Complex Bill on April 9
Despite serious pushback, Thailand’s Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat is optimistic that the Entertainment Complex Bill will pass its first reading in parliament on Wednesday, April 9.
The bill, which aims to legalize casinos in Thailand could mark a major shift in the country’s tourism and entertainment industry. Julapun will head a 31-member committee that includes Cabinet reps, political figures, academics, and other experts.
He emphasized quality over quantity this time—unlike past attempts that failed due to bloated, ineffective committees. He also stressed that all committee members must uphold integrity and avoid using their roles for personal gain.
If the bill gets the green light, the next steps are expected in July, including the formation of the Entertainment Complex Office. These complexes would include casinos but that’s only 10% of the plan. Think high-end malls, theme parks, sports stadiums, and concert venues—a full-on entertainment experience.
On the money side, the tax model is inspired by Singapore, with expected tax rates of 12% on VIP gambling and 18% on general gamblers. Licenses will be limited and regulated, again taking cues from Singapore’s tight two-license model.
Anti-money laundering safeguards and addiction prevention strategies are also in the works. Julapun says these changes won’t rush through but they are a clear priority for the current government, which sees this as a long-term economic boost.
Thailand’s public divided on casino entertainment bill
Thailand’s leading graduate school specializing in public administration, economics, and social development, NIDA, announces the poll results conducted on the public support...
